The Queen Butterfly (Danaus gilippusis), is one of three Danaus or milkweed butterflies commonly found in the United States. The Monarch Butterfly, probably the most recognizable member of the group, ranges across the United States.
Queens have a narrower range, living in milkweed habitat in the Midwest and Southwest.
Field identification can be easy or difficult, depending on location. In areas where Queens and Soldiers overlap, identification can be tricky because the wings of both species share similar physical characteristics.
The top picture shows a top view of the Queen's wings. The chestnut colored wings lack the black veins visible in the Soldier butterfly.
The bottom picture shows a side view of the wings, with thick black stripes and white spots along the edges. Generally the side view of the wings show a consistent chestnut color, compared to a side wing view of the Soldier.
